Infamous American actor and director Mel Gibson also received an Honorary Entertainment Makers Award. He said in a speech, “I want to thank GEA for the award, especially the head of GEA, Turki Al-Sheikh. I’ve never been to Saudi before, I’ve never been in Riyadh for sure, but I was surprised how culturally open (it is) so for me, I’m very proud of you, it’s fantastic.”
The Joy Awards is part of Riyadh Season, and is hosted by the Saudi General Entertainment Authority in line with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030. The event is billed as the largest celebration of entertainment creators in the Arab world.
Georgina Rodriguez, life partner of footballer Cristiano Ronaldo, who recently joined Saudi Arabian side Al-Nassr in a record-breaking deal, expressed her feelings about living in the kingdom and described it as being in a “dream.” She walked the lavender carpet in a stunning figure hugging gown, accessoried with a sultry veil. As well as Vergara, regional actresses Hend Sabri, Rym Saidi, and Mila Al-Zahrani were also in attendance.
